Rule Of Thirds |Digital Photography Terms

By Scott Umstattd

The Rule of Thirds is a photography
composition term. The intent behind the “rule” is to help the
photographer better compose his/her shot. By using the four lines and
nine squares (tic-tac-toe), the photographer can better align and
balance the picture.

Align and balance. For the same reason
you align and balance the tires and wheels on your car, you must also
find balance and symmetry in your photographs. The Rule of Thirds is
a tool that helps you align your pictures.

Here's How It Works

With four lines you can carve out nine
equal portions of your picture. The four points of the center square
represent target focal points. Don’t place your subject in the
center of the picture. Instead, move your camera so that the subject
is slightly off center both horizontal and vertical.

You can also use the lines that make up
the Rule of Thirds as a guide when slightly offsetting your subject.

Video Tutorial: How To Compose Your Photo Using the Rule of Thirds (By Lori Allen)

Why Use The Rule?

Composition is everything. Ok.
Composition and lighting.

You want your picture to have balance.
By using the four points and the four lines that the Rule of Thirds
provides, you can more easily move your subject around within your
frame and still keep a balanced and well composed shot.

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